Oral Question 10

For Oral Answer: The Hon Member for Douglas North (Mr Houghton) to ask the Minister for Health and Social Security

Are you aware of a large sum of money which has been donated by St Christophers Isle of Man to its UK Counterpart; if so

What is the amount and the reason for its transferral?

Answer

Mr Speaker,

The formal relationship between St. Christophers (IOM) and St. Christophers Fellowship is a matter for them to determine. The Department has a contract with St Christophers that was initiated by a competitive tendering process and as long as that contract is properly conducted that is the extent of our concern.

However, the Chief Executive of St. Christophers Fellowship has given me permission to advise this Honourable Court that the matter referred to by the Honourable Member for Douglas North is shown in the annual accounts which St. Christophers IOM have published as a registered charity. All business is conducted within the guidelines prescribed by the Attorney General for Charities and all financial transactions are approved by the Isle of Man Trustees. There is a financial relationship between St. Christophers IOM and St. Christophers Fellowship and this is a relationship which is mutually beneficial.